Which scenario might require an attorney to withdraw from representation?

The requirement for an attorney to withdraw from representation arises prominently in scenarios involving conflicts of interest, making this the correct choice. When an attorney discovers a serious conflict of interest, it can severely compromise their ability to represent the client effectively and ethically. Conflicts of interest can lead to divided loyalties that jeopardize the attorney's duty of loyalty and confidentiality to their clients, a fundamental principle in professional ethics.

In such cases, the attorney must prioritize their ethical obligations and take steps to withdraw from the representation to avoid potential harm to the client and themselves, as well as to uphold the integrity of the legal profession. This practice aligns with the California Rules of Professional Conduct, which mandate that attorneys must avoid representing clients in situations where their personal interests or the interests of another client conflict with the client's interests.

Other scenarios do not carry the same legal and ethical imperatives for withdrawal. For instance, a client being unresponsive may complicate communication but does not typically necessitate withdrawal unless it leads to a failure to comply with court orders or other critical issues. Similarly, finding a case too complicated or feeling underappreciated reflects personal or professional challenges rather than an ethical breach or conflict that mandates withdrawal.